5. From Hell (Adapted from From Hell by Alan Moore) A 2001 Jack the Ripper flick starring Johnny Depp, From Hell pretty much sandbagged in the box office. However, despite the lukewarm reception, it is still acknowledged as a well-done macabre piece.
4. Road to Perdition (Adapted from Road to Perdition by Max Allan Collins) The first in the comic series adapted into a movie - which was also loosely based on a Japanese manga comic titled Lone Wolf and Cub - this mobster shoot 'em up flick ended with six Academy Award nominations, with a single win for cinematography.
3. The Crow (Adapted from The Crow by James O'Barr)
Originally written by O'Barr as a means of catharsis concerning the death of his girlfriend, The Crow was a longtime underground success in the comic world. Once adapted to a movie, it received both public and critical acclaim - perhaps partly due to the accidental on-set death of lead actor Brandon Lee (son of Bruce Lee). This "dark world" revenge film centers on the theme of violent death throughout.
2. V for Vendetta (Adapted from V for Vendetta by Alan Moore) Profound and entertaining, V for Vendetta made for a terrific movie. While Alan Moore refused to allow his name to be associated with the film, the adaptation was well received because it successfully translated the air of fear, turmoil and liberation found in the novel.
1. The Matrix (Controversially ripped off from The Invisibles by Grant Morrison)
While The Matrix was not a purposeful adaptation of a graphic novel, it cuts far too close to The Invisibles to be ignored. Even Morrison himself has accused the Wachowski brothers of bastardizing his series and simplifying it for mass consumption. While The Invisibles is far more complex than The Matrix (which is saying something), both are evident masterpieces.
